We are all spending more time than ever with our screens - facetiming, zooming and working from our laptops - but did you know the damage this could be doing to our skin?
We are all aware of the damage UV rays from the sun can do to our skin, but evolving research confirms that blue light emitted from our digital devices can contribute to wrinkles, sagging, hyperpigmentation and age spots. If you are serious about preventing premature ageing, there are ways to limit blue light damage.
What is Blue Light?
Blue light is a high energy wave light, that makes up 25% to 30% of sunlight. This natural blue light reduces as a percentage throughout the day guiding our bodies into nighttime and triggering melatonin production. Our phones, laptops and screens emit approximately 35% blue light throughout the day and evening.
Recent studies suggest that blue light penetrates deep into the skin and breaks down collagen and elastin production. Too much blue light can also darken hyperpigmentation especially in deeper skin tones.
Using screens late into the evening can affect melatonin production, in turn disrupting sleep patterns resulting in dark circles and eye bags. Without quality sleep, our skin can’t regenerate and replenish effectively.
What can you do to limit skin damage from blue light?
The best way to reduce blue light damage is to reduce screen time which is easier said than done. Try making these simple changes when using screens:
- Use hands free when making a call so the screen is away from your face.
- Use night mode on your phone, a setting that disables blue light in favour of yellow light.
- Cover your laptop and phone with a blue light shield
What skincare changes can you make?
Skincare, rich in antioxidants, can boost our skin’s defence against environmental damage that occurs from UV and bluelight.
Our new Bakuchiol Smoothing Serum is formulated with Terminalia Chebula. This fruit is a unique and potent Ayurvedic antioxidant, protecting against environmental pollution and blue light. It is also known to boost collagen production, maintain hydration (by inhibiting the degradation of hyaluronic acid), control inflammation, target pigmentation and enhance radiance. This serum is equally effective both used during the day or overnight to protect and repair the skin.
